Just starting out Q

If it's going to take me longer to get a nursing degree due to time constraints does it make sense to go ahead and become a CNA so I can start work in the nursing field or does it even matter? Maybe just work at whatever job until I'm through school? I may end up paying for a class at a time, if that helps. Any thought. Thank you.

If you have a previous Bachelor's degree, you may consider an accelerated BSN degree and be an RN.

Jul 6, '12

Quote from yamkins

If you have a previous Bachelor's degree, you may consider an accelerated BSN degree and be an RN.

In addition to this younger also be able to obtain an MSN. I found this out right before I graduated but if you have a previous 4yr degree there are some programs that it's like accelerated so u get your RN during the program and when u grad u have ur MSN which I think is awesome!

Jul 6, '12

Thank you both for replying, that option sounds great but unfortunately I don't even have an assoc degree yet.

Jul 6, '12

Ok. I know CNA training can be attained with an HS diploma and approx. 6-12 months training depending on the facility you attend.

If you want to become an LPN, it takes around a year.

RN education is on average 2 years for an Associates degree and 4 years for BSN.

Depends on how much time and money you'd like to invest and how fast you'd like to finally work in the field. I know some of these programs also offer part-time and even partial online classes.

Jul 8, '12

The nursing homes in our area offer CNA training courses for free and pay you to do them and work for them. They are accelerated but only take a few weeks. If you don't already have a job then pursuing work as a CNA would be a great way to get hands on patient care. It generally doesn't pay great for all the hard work you have to do but it definitely gives you the opportunity I take care of people. Good luck!

Jul 10, '12

Thank you. I am persuing both. Taking classes in a couple weeks to get my CNA license and also heading back to school to become an RN.

Jul 10, '12

Congratulations! I just wanted to mention that some employers will pay at least a portion of (degree) classes, so as you go through, it might be something to look at, in terms of evaluating potential employers.

Jul 12, '12

Thank you. A friend's work place does that, I'm waiting to hear back from them . It's not nursing but I can transfer over once I get started.